The Department of State Services, DSS, has arrested a man identified as Moferewa Maiye for allegedly impersonating its personnel and using a fake firearm to intimidate and extort motorists in Abuja.
Maiye was arrested at a hideout around NITEL Junction, along Adetokunbo Ademola Way in Wuse II, after DSS operatives reportedly acted on intelligence linking him to the alleged impersonation and extortion activities.
According to a security source, the suspect was wearing a DSS tactical uniform when operatives apprehended him and was found with a fake pistol.
The source said Maiye allegedly used the appearance of a security operative and the imitation firearm to intimidate commuters and motorists and extort money from them.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly claimed that he was from Agbajojun Village in Mopamuro Local Government Area of Kogi State.
He also allegedly told investigators that his late brother, identified as Monday Maiye, was a DSS personnel and that the uniform and other DSS items found in his possession belonged to him.
Also Read:Â DSS docks former operative for terrorism
The DSS is now investigating how Maiye obtained the uniform and other operational items and whether the equipment was previously used in other impersonation-related activities.
Investigators are also seeking to establish how long the suspect may have been involved in the alleged acts and whether he operated alone or had accomplices, the security source said.
The arrest comes amid recurring cases in Abuja and other parts of Nigeria involving individuals who allegedly disguise themselves as security personnel to gain authority over members of the public or facilitate fraudulent activities.
The DSS itself has previously warned members of the public about impostors, including former personnel who continue to present themselves as serving operatives.
In November 2025, the Service said it had dismissed 115 personnel as part of measures to strengthen professionalism and integrity and urged Nigerians to verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a DSS operative.
The latest suspect remains in custody while the investigation continues to determine the circumstances surrounding the possession of the uniform and fake firearm, as well as establish whether Maiye’s alleged activities were part of a wider pattern of impersonation and extortion.
Authorities have repeatedly cautioned members of the public to be vigilant around individuals who present themselves as security personnel and to report suspicious conduct to the appropriate authorities.
Crediblenewsng.com
